As well as being the world's largest teak building, and constructed in a lovely golden shade of the wood, this early 20th century, 81 roomed mansion or palace is also a good place to come to see classical Thai dancing, Thai folk dancing and musical performances and martial arts demonstrations. These attributes, and the extensive museum collection of heritage pieces that are now kept in the mansion, have made this one of the most popular visitors attractions in Bangkok.

Surprisingly, considering how attractive this palace is, it was only lived in for a few years before it was forgotten, and the museum has been gradually taking over the buildings since the 1980s, filling them with artefacts from pre-history to the dramatic reign of King Rama V, and up to photos of the present day rulers.

Most of the visiting busloads only visit the main building, and there's also an hour long tour you can join, but if you want to go over the whole thing go on your own or engage a local guide. Vimanmek is open between 8:30 and 4:30 and takes most of a day to go over if you want to enter each gallery. Because this is still considered a royal palace there's a below the knee, and beyond the shoulder dress code and no indoor photography allowed.

Dusit Palace Park

193/2 Ratchawithi Rd, Bangkok

Written by  Emilie Stokes.

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